Seven-Time World Champion Withdraws from Tire Test to Care for His Dog
The most decorated Formula 1 driver with the most race wins and tied for most world championships, Lewis Hamilton, pulled out of a planned F1 tire test to stay by his dog, Roscoe’s side. One of the most famous pets on the paddock, Roscoe, has been a mascot for Formula 1 since Hamilton adopted him in 2013. The 12-year-old bulldog has recently faced health issues that Hamilton discussed in the summer. Roscoe recently came down with pneumonia, and during his check-up under sedation, his heart stopped, and he fell into a coma. Hamilton chose to prioritize his family over his racing duties this week to be there for his beloved companion, a choice that drew global attention and support from fans for Hamilton and his dog.
Roscoe is a familiar face on race day and on social media. He has become a celebrity himself on Instagram, with 1.3 million followers, where he showcases fashion campaigns, travel photos, race day shots, and his life with Hamilton. On Friday, the Ferrari driver asked fans to keep his bulldog in their thoughts as he faces this unexpected medical issue. Almost all of the Formula 1 teams commented on the post, sharing their support for Hamilton, and some drivers, such as George Russell, sent their thoughts. Hamilton ended his post by stating they don’t know whether Roscoe will wake up from the coma, and is staying by his dog’s side through it all.
Moments like these humanize the drivers in a sport that is easy to forget about the people who drive the high-speed cars. Even the best athletes face choices of balancing personal life and professional responsibilities. Hamilton is a disciplined athlete, and it is rare for him to miss out on team duties. He often refers to his dog as more than a dog and says that Roscoe is his closest family member. There is still no update on Roscoe’s health since his coma on Friday, but the entire Formula 1 community is hopeful for his recovery because of how much Hamilton and Roscoe have touched the sport beyond the racetrack.
